Richmond apartment fire: More than 40 residents displaced, 20 units burned down
HOUSTON - A Thursday night fire at The Fairway at Bellevue apartments has left more than 40 residents displaced after a blaze impacted a building with 20 units.
The Richmond Fire Department responded to the fire at 1111 Golfview Drive after the fire broke out around 9 p.m. When firefighters arrived on the scene, heavy smoke and flames could be seen from the two-story building.
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All residents were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported.
The fire was quickly upgraded to a multi-alarm incident, prompting assistance from several neighboring fire departments, including units as far away as Missouri City.
"In 10 minutes, two of the units were already burning," said Jesus Vazquez, a resident.
"My main thought was just making sure my daughter was okay," said Josh Dietrich, another resident.
A text message interrupted Josh Dietrich’s concert with the devestating news that his apartment building was ablaze.
"When we pulled up, everything was just orange, everything was just engulfed, and was just up in flames," said Dietrich.
Panic-stricken residents rushed out clutching whatever belongings they could.
"I just saw a lot of flames shooting up, so I grabbed what I could and got out. But other than that, I lost everything," said Vasquez.
While all residents escaped the fire safely, many are now facing the daunting task of rebuilding their lives.
"There was about six or seven times last night where it started flaring back up and everything, so they were pretty much here until about 4:30 in the morning," said Dietrich.
The Red Cross providing support services to help the now displaced families.
"Really, the big thing though is the community that we have. It sucks that it takes something like this to happen, but it really shows how much people come together when you need them," said Dietrich.
According to officials, the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
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The Richmond Fire Department posted on Facebook that the Fairview at Bellevue Apartments are asking for donations for the residents who are displaced. They are asking for items including water, food, clothing, toiletries, and more. The items can be dropped off at the leasing office.
More details are expected as the investigation progresses.